Sassi’s strike helps Al Gharafa into AFC Champions League group stage
DOHA: Ferjani Sassi’s second-half strike secured Qatar’s Al Gharafa a 1-0 victory over Shabab Al Ahli of the United Arab Emirates in their AFC Champions League Elite Preliminary Stage 2 match at the Al Bayt Stadium on Tuesday. The win ensures Al Gharafa’s spot in the AFC Champions League Elite 2024/25 group stage, while Shabab Al Ahli will now compete in the AFC Champions League Two 2024/25.
The home side began the match energetically, nearly taking the lead in the sixth minute when Joselu’s shot struck the post. Al Gharafa’s persistent pressure saw multiple chances, with Shabab Al Ahli goalkeeper Hassan Hamza making crucial saves to deny efforts from Jamal Hamed, Florinel Coman, and Fabricio Diaz. Despite opportunities for both sides, it was Sassi who broke the deadlock, propelling his team into the group stage.
Shabab Al Ahli had their chances, including a ninth-minute header from Breno Cascardo, but Khalifa Ababacar was equal to the task. The visitors also came close in the 23rd minute when Yuri Cesar missed a golden opportunity, while Al Gharafa’s Assim Madibo narrowly missed scoring from a free-kick in the 37th minute.
With the victory, Al Gharafa looks forward to the group stage draw, which will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Friday.
